I've searched and read everything I can about pinion angles on this site and others, but I'd like to get a few opinions before I weld on new axle seats. Ok great ones, here's where I'm at with installing a '79 rear axle under my '63.
I removed the old axle (intact), replaced trailing arm bushings, cleaned everything up, installed 3" drop springs, went through the new (to me) '79 rear end, fabricated a new panhard bar bracket for the frame and all parts are cleaned, painted (except the axle tube), and ready for almost final installation to set the pinion angle and tack the axle seats in place. Before I do any welding on the axle I have a few questions...
The angle of the motor/tranny as measured with an angle finder at the starter housing is -2 degrees (i.e. pointed slightly down). It is my intention to set the rear end pinion angle at +2 degrees (i.e. pointed slightly up). When I do this the truck will be sitting on all four wheels in a mostly level garage. Sound about right?
I have measured everything I can think of to get the rearend centered between the frame rails and for the life of me I can't satisfy myself that it is right. I've measure the distance between the trailing arms and the pumpkin to make sure that they are the same and about the same as what was on the old axle (compensating for the difference between old v. new pumpkin). I've measured from the inside of the tire (at ride height) to the outside of the frame to make sure that it is the same. I've measured from the inside of the fender to the outside of the tire. Here's the problem...with the measurement the same on each side from the inside of the tire to the outside of the frame I have less fender clearance on the passenger side than on the driver's side.
My gut tells me the problem is that the bed is not sitting on the truck straight (which wouldn't suprise me). Any thoughts?
